Richmond RCMP warn of potential asbestos exposure from stolen equipment

SHORTLY after 9 a.m. on Tuesday (October 30), Richmond RCMP responded to a work site in the 8100-block Westminster Highway for a report of a theft. Structures at the site were scheduled for demolition and industrial equipment was brought in to assist in the process. One of the pieces of equipment reportedly stolen was an OmniAire 2000C, a machine used to remove asbestos.

Asbestos particles can be harmful if inhaled or handled. Police are asking the public avoid contact with the machine without proper safety equipment.

If anyone has any information about this incident, or if you have located this machine, contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote police file #2018-34877.

For more information about the health and safety risks of asbestos, visit:

https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/air-quality/indoor-air-contaminants/health-risks-asbestos.html